Access to the Natal Drakensberg wilderness areas is controlled via its official entry points. With the exception of the Sentinel car park in QwaQwa, and the Mnweni Reservation, these are all manned by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife staff. Some entry points like those at Giant’s Castle and Cathedral Peak are quite sophisticated, while others have no links to the outside world except possibly by radio.

It is very important to make use of the official entry points. Each has a Mountain Rescue Register which hikers must fill in as accurately and completely as possible before they start their hike. This information will be used to confirm your safe return and to assist with any rescue effort if one is required. A portion of your entry fee goes towards a mountain rescue fund. The fund is used to help cover the cost of helicopter rescues and rescue equipment.

The balance of your entry fee is used to support the wilderness area you are entering. This includes the maintenance of paths and ablution facilities, the burning of fire breaks, and even the welfare of the horses used to carry out patrols and assist with rescues. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife is hugely underfunded, so begrudging them your overnight fee is counter-productive. Although the overnight fee has increased steeply over the years, you cannot find better value for your money anywhere else. It is important that all mountain-lovers share the responsibility of maintaining this vast wilderness area and contribute towards a friendly and constructive relationship with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife staff.

Problems do arise occasionally when hikers who have followed the correct entry procedures encounter some who have not. Always carry your proof of payment with you. If you arrive at a cave you have booked and find someone else there, or if they arrive after you, you can at least show them who has right of way. Report the incident to the staff at your entry point after your hike. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife conservation managers work closely with local communities, farmers and tourism-related establishments, and are able to follow up on such incidents. Everyone involved understands the importance of maintaining friendly working relationships because they are all mutually dependent on one another.